Cape Town, 16 September 2023 – The small-town Uniondale in the Little Karoo in the Western Cape was recently visited by the People’s Dispensary for Sick Animals South Africa (PDSA) and the global animal welfare organisation, FOUR PAWS, as part of their sterilisation project from the 11th – 15th September 2023.

“The project, fully sponsored by FOUR PAWS has brought much needed support to the community who rallied behind it. Sterilising pets is a crucial step towards being a responsible pet owner and saves lives as there are less unwanted litters and fewer animals who end up in the welfare system needing to be rehomed.” says Fiona Miles, Director of FOUR PAWS in South Africa.

Tucked in a picturesque valley between passes, Uniondale suffers the economic woes of a town dependent on agriculture yet there was such incredible generosity towards the sterilisation fundraising drive.

Miles stated, “the Uniondale sterilisation drive was a collaborative effort initiated by The PDSA and FOUR PAWS to sterilise and vaccinate over 450 needy animals (dogs and cats). The project also delivered much needed primary veterinary care such as rabies vaccinations.”

The sterilisation drive was held at Uniep Community Hall where many pet owners brought their pets to the clinic and registered throughout the week. The surgical team consisted of 3 veterinarians, led by Dr Annelize Roos and supported by the Garden Route SPCA

Leading Veterinarian Dr Roos said, “120 kilometres from the nearest veterinary clinic, without the transport or funds needed to access these services, coupled with a lack of education on animal welfare, neglect becomes commonplace. Without access to veterinary care, it could lead to death from preventable diseases, including tick-bite fever and parvovirus, coupled with uncontrolled breeding and no access to animal shelter services, this low-income community and their pets are in dire need. We were able to provide spaying, neutering, life-saving vaccinations, tick and flea treatment, and pet wellness packages, collars, and food to 450 animals.”

She continues, “For animal welfare in Uniondale, it's crucial not just to have a single intervention of sterilising animals to prevent abuse and suffering. A lasting element is also established during the project, which ensures that people on the ground, can continue its upkeep. Reaching the 70 percent mark is only the beginning. This initiative must be continuously nurtured and sustained. The immense community support gives me confidence in the project's long-term success.”

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FOUR PAWS is the global animal welfare organisation for animals under direct human influence, which reveals suffering, rescues animals in need and protects them. Founded by Heli Dungler and friends in Vienna in 1988, the organisation focuses on companion animals including stray dogs and cats, farm animals and wild animals kept in inappropriate conditions as well as in disaster and conflict zones. With sustainable campaigns and projects, such as its own sanctuaries, FOUR PAWS provides rapid help and long-term protection for suffering animals. www.four-paws.org.za

The People’s Dispensary for Sick Animals continues in its efforts to provide veterinary care of the highest standards to our poorer communities.

Despite the challenging economic times, it is our commitment to this cause that continues to attract pet owners to our hospitals and clinics.